Our family was taking a road trip from Texas and going to visit California for the first time when we endured a terrible car accident. I had a severe laceration to the knee, my father endured four broken ribs, mother suffered a concussion, and my sister was critically injured with severe trauma to the head. My little brother was killed instantly when the car rolled over. I was only eight; he was four days shy from turning seven years old.
My sister was airlifted to a medical center in Las Vegas while my mother and I were treated at a local hospital. Our family was separated for several weeks as my sister battled for her life. During her recovery, I was introduced to the Ronald McDonald House of Las Vegas.
I remember being in awe of such a large “Home”. There was a massive kitchen where I could eat to my young heart’s desire, a beautiful playground for kids to play with, and my favorite: the game room where I first learned to play Super Smash Brothers on Nintendo 64.
I will never forget the woman who worked at the Ronald McDonald, who consoled me as I cried for my missing brother. “I lost my brother too, but there is one thing you must know- we will see them again someday”. I will never forget her kind words, nor the support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities as my family was going through such a difficult time. The volunteers of the Ronald McDonald House helped bring a ray of hope when all seemed lost.
Growing up, I was fortunate enough to recover from my injuries and become a Captain in the United States Air Force. I currently serve as a C-17 pilot in Joint Base Charleston and am proud to work as a volunteer for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston. I am thankful that the Ronald McDonald House continues its mission to serve families across America. Thank you, Ronald McDonald House Charities, for opening your home to me.
Forever Grateful,
Sofia Schmidt